Heatwave Advice

In a heatwave you may get dehydrated and your body may overheat. If you already have a heart or breathing problem, this may make your symptoms worse. It can also cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin and a high temperature. Heatstroke can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated but it can also occur suddenly and without warning. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, an intense thirst, sleepiness, hot, red and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature, confusion, aggression, convulsions and loss of consciousness.

To help reduce the risk of ill health from the heat you should

• Plan your day so that you can keep out of the heat

• If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm)

• Keep strenuous activity like sport, DIY or gardening for the cooler parts of the day, if you can.

• If you have to go out, keep in the shade, wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothes and take plenty of water with you.

Try and stay cool indoors, drink water or fruit juice regularly even if you don?t feel thirsty and try to eat more cold food particularly salads and fruit which contain water. Seek advice if you have any concerns, and if you know anyone who is likely to be at risk or older people living alone, check to make sure they are OK.

Remember, heatstroke can kill. It can develop very suddenly and rapidly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 999 immediately.

More information can be found from the booklet Heatwave available from www.orderline.dh.gov.uk email dh@prolog.uk.com or in the surgery waiting room.

Weather forecasts and high temperature warnings from www.metoffice.co.uk

NHS Direct for advice on 0845 46 47 or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

Protection for your skin from the Cancer Research UK SunSmart campaign website at http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/healthyliving/sunsmart/